concrete

Pronunciation: KON-kreet

adjective

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of concrete

Existing in a material or physical form; specific, definite, and tangible rather than abstract or theoretical.

Origin of concrete

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: concretus

Original meaning: grown together, condensed

How it evolved: Originally referred to physical substances that were solid or compact, later extended metaphorically to mean anything tangible or specific.

Derived from Latin, meaning 'grown together' or 'compacted,' the word evolved to represent things that are solid or definite in nature.

First known use: 14th century

How to Remember concrete

Think of 'concrete' as the physical material used to build something solid and tangible—just like its meaning.

Synonyms for concrete

Antonyms of concrete

  • abstract
  • vague
  • intangible
  • theoretical
  • conceptual

concrete in a Sentence

  1. The scientist presented concrete evidence to support her hypothesis, leaving no room for doubt.
  2. Rather than discussing abstract concepts, the professor provided concrete examples to clarify his points.
  3. The architect transformed his abstract vision into a concrete structure that stood as a testament to his creativity.

concrete in Literature & Culture

The term 'concrete' is often used in literature and speeches to emphasize the importance of specific, tangible examples over abstract theories, enhancing clarity and impact.

Usage Notes

Be cautious not to confuse 'concrete' with its literal sense as a building material when used metaphorically to mean 'specific' or 'tangible.'

Why concrete Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'concrete' is often used on the GRE in contrast to 'abstract,' requiring test-takers to understand its dual meanings and apply it in nuanced contexts.

Word Family

concretely (adverb)
In a clear and definite manner; tangibly.
concreteness (noun)
The quality of being specific, tangible, or definite.
concretion (noun)
The process of becoming solid or tangible; a solid mass formed by coalescence.

Did You Know?

  • The literal sense of 'concrete' as a building material dates back to Ancient Rome, where it was a key ingredient in their architectural feats.
  • The word 'concrete' shares its root with 'concrescence,' which refers to the coalescence of parts into a whole.
  • Concrete poetry, a genre of literature, uses the arrangement of text to create a visual effect, blending the literal and metaphorical senses of the word.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with C

  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • calumny — slander and defamation
  • calumny — slander and defamation